GODERICH, Ont. - The state of emergency declared in Goderich following last month's deadly tornado will remain in place.
Mayor Deb Shewfelt says workers recommended that the classification stay in place for the southwestern Ontario town, since there is still a lot of damage.
Shewfelt says it will be kept in place until at least Sept. 16, when officials will meet to determine their next step.
Another meeting this morning saw council considering cutting through some of the red tape for residents and building owners who want to rebuild on their land.
Shewfelt says they'll hold a public meeting on the issue soon and get a new zoning bylaw in place as soon as possible to get work started on demolished homes.
One man died and 37 others were injured when the F3 tornado cut a swath through Goderich on Aug. 21.
Courthouse to remain closed for months
It could be two months before services resume out of the courthouse in Goderich.
Officials say the building is structurally sound but windows were broken due to the high winds and there was some minor water damage.
As well, ventilation units came loose and debris was blown into the building.
Tests have detected asbestos in some areas, which means it will take longer to complete the work.
